After a cagey start at the Amex Stadium, it was the hosts who just shaded the play and were awarded for their efforts when Evan Ferguson slotted home past Nick Pope to put the Seagulls ahead midway through the first period.
Newcastle struggled to lay a glove on their opponents and rarely tested the Brighton back line and goalkeeper for the majority of the first period.
Here are our half-time ratings from Newcastle United’s clash with Brighton at the Amex Stadium:

9. Miguel Almiron - 6
Showed flashes of being able to force matters in forward positions but wasn’t able to grab the game by the scruff of the neck when it mattered. | Getty Images

10. Alexander Isak - 6
Had a couple of early openings and should have tested Verbruggen in the Brighton goal. | Getty Images

11. Anthony Gordon - 6
Was quiet early on as he looked to build on his brilliant performance against Liverpool. Booked in the 23rd minute. | Getty Images



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